Phil Monahan is a longtime fly-fishing writer, editor, and educator. Phil has spent years translating complex techniques — everything from trout behaviour to knot systems and presentation strategies — into practical, approachable instruction for anglers at every level.

An experienced angler, Phil has fished widely across North America and brings a deep appreciation for rivers, wild fish, and the traditions that surround the sport. In this episode of Anchored, we talk about his latest book, what percent of anglers stick with it once they get started, finding work in the fly fishing industry, and much more. 

You may have noticed me wearing Skwala fishing apparel for the past year or so, and I gotta say, I’ve been really impressed with everything I’ve tried. I love the way they design gear. They manage to strike a perfect balance between durable and functional but also comfortable and mobile. I stay warm and dry, but never feel cramped or restricted when I’m wading, casting, or rowing. I’ve enjoyed fishing in their apparel so much, I recently joined their team as an ambassador. We’ve even been working together on ways to translate their expertise with technical fly fishing apparel into gear that’s specifically designed for women, and I’m really excited about the progress we’ve made. If you haven’t already done so, go check them out at skwalafishing.com and see what they’re all about. Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out.

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Spencer Siem is a New Mexico–based fly fishing guide known for his deep knowledge of Southwestern waters and his connection to the Feather Thief legacy. Blending technical precision with a reverence for fly-tying history, Spencer approaches guiding as both craft and storytelling. His work reflects a respect for tradition, a curiosity for innovation, and a quiet dedication to passing the culture of fly fishing forward. In this episode of Anchored, we learn more about his story.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com

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Mikael Frödin is a renowned fly fisherman, innovator, and fly designer whose influence spans decades of modern salmon and trout fishing. Best known for his pioneering work with tube flies and his analytical approach to fish behaviour, Frödin blends Scandinavian tradition with relentless experimentation. His work—on the water, in writing, and through design—has helped shape how anglers around the world think about presentation, efficiency, and respect for wild fish.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com 

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Clark “Cheech” Pierce is a fly tyer, educator, and co-founder of Fly Fish Food, one of the most influential fly-tying brands in the industry. Known for his creative patterns, clear instruction, and trademark sense of humour, Cheech has helped modernize fly tying for a new generation of anglers. His YouTube tutorials, product designs, and hands-on teaching have made him a go-to resource for tiers looking to sharpen their skills or explore innovative materials.

In this episode of Anchored, we talk shop on materials, innovation, and the state of fly tying today, but we also get a glimpse into Cheech’s humour, hustle, and the passion that fuels everything he does.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com

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This episode of Anchored is a little different. I recorded it while in steelhead camp this year, and my hope is that you’ll share it with someone in your life who’s thinking about getting into fly fishing but doesn’t know where to start. It’s based on an ebook I wrote a few years ago, so I’ve included an easy link to that book in the description. No sign-ups or email addresses required — just click and enjoy.

 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KfPE4LLt9pKT1WB4bEMq5mSpBYbuKz_x/view

Anchored listeners also get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com 

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Alberta’s Trout Trust is a grassroots group dedicated to protecting the province’s trout and fisheries. From tackling fish losses in irrigation canals to advocating for habitat protection and angler education, the Trust works to ensure healthy waters and sustainable fishing for generations to come.

In this episode of Anchored, we discuss the challenges facing Alberta’s fisheries, and how anglers, advocates, and conservationists are working together to tackle issues like fish entrainment and habitat protection.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com 

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Diane Michelin is a Canadian watercolour artist whose work is deeply rooted in the spirit and subtleties of fly fishing. Born in Montreal, she now lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Diane draws inspiration from the landscape, water, wildlife, flies, rods and reels, and the human moments that make up the fly-fishing experience. Over her career, she has built a global presence, with her work housed in private collections, fishing lodges, and museums around the world.

In this episode of Anchored, Diane offers a personal glimpse into her life and artistic journey, sharing how rivers and reels became her canvas, and how she continues to capture the soul of angling through brush and watercolour.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com

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James Christmas is an accomplished fishing guide whose career has taken him from the remote flats of the Seychelles to destinations across the globe. Known for his skill in putting anglers onto everything from bonefish to giant trevally, James combines deep technical knowledge with an easygoing guiding style that keeps clients coming back. Alongside his guiding, he has designed influential flies such as the NYAP (Not Your Average Popper), patterns now used by anglers worldwide.

Link for Catherine: https://givesendgo.com/Giveasmile?utm_source=sharelink&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_campaign=Giveasmile

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com

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Brian Silvey is a legendary Oregon guide and fly designer who has guided 40 years on the Deschutes and Sandy Rivers. Known for his innovative patterns, he’s guided generations of anglers while sharing a lifetime of knowledge about the rivers, fish, and techniques that define Northwest fly fishing. In this episode of Anchored, he joins us to do just that.

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Nick Lyons is a renowned fly fisher, author, and publisher whose influence has shaped the landscape of modern angling literature. A former professor of English at Hunter College, Lyons left academia to pursue his passion for writing and publishing, founding Lyons Press—a company that became one of the most respected publishers of outdoor and sporting books. As the author of numerous beloved titles, including Spring Creek  and The Seasonable Angler, Lyons brought poetic introspection and literary quality to the world of fly fishing. His work is celebrated for its wit, humility, and deep reverence for nature, inspiring generations of anglers and writers alike.

Looking to go deeper with your learning? Come see what we’ve been working on at AnchoredOutdoors.com. We’ve built a library of 30 in-depth, sequentially organized Masterclasses taught by past guests of this podcast — and we’ve watched over 1,000 members grow their confidence and skills on the water. Want to check it out for free? No money down, no strings attached. Just head to anchoredoutdoors.com/premium-insiders/

Anchored listeners can get 10% off their first order with Skwala by using the code “anchored10” at check out. See for yourself at skwalafishing.com 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices